World briefs

The release of Australian Warren Rodwell by Islamic militants in the Philippines was almost botched after kidnappers initially reneged on a deal to release him. The Vice-Governor of Basilan province, Al-Rasheed Sakalahul, has confirmed a ransom of almost $94,000 was paid to secure his release. AAP

A new rivalry between the world’s biggest passenger aircraft makers is heating up in Indonesia after a record $23 billion deal with Airbus was made in a market with huge potential that until now has been a “fortress" for Boeing. AFP

Tahitian-born
Moana Carcasses Kalosil
has been elected Prime Minister of Vanuatu ending a tumultuous few days of politics in the Pacific island nation. AFP